How to Get Around Taiwan: Metro, Trains, and the EasyCard Explained
Your no-stress guide to Taiwan’s super-efficient public transport system
Taiwan is a compact island with a big personality—and luckily, its public transportation is just as impressive. Whether you’re hopping around Taipei or planning a scenic loop from the city to the coast, getting around is affordable, reliable, and (best of all) easy. Here’s how to master the metro, navigate the trains, and unlock travel freedom with one magic card: the EasyCard.
🎫 First Things First: What is the EasyCard?
Meet your new best friend in Taiwan—the EasyCard (悠遊卡pronounced like ‘Yo-Yo Card’). It’s a tap-and-go stored-value card used on nearly every mode of transport in Taiwan: MRT, local trains, buses, YouBikes, ferries, even convenience stores and some vending machines.
You can grab one at any MRT station, 7-Eleven, or right when you land at Taoyuan International Airport. Cost: NT$100 deposit (non-refundable), and then you top it up with whatever amount you like. Trust us—load it up, and you’re good to go.
🚇 MRT (Metro) Systems – Clean, Punctual, and Air-Conditioned Bliss
Taipei and Kaohsiung both have slick MRT systems, and they’re a dream. Taipei’s MRT is the pride of the city: fast, spotlessly clean, and English-friendly. Think color-coded lines, clear announcements, and stations that often double as mini malls.
Pro tip: Look for the “Priority Seating” signs and don’t sit there unless you need to. Also, eating or drinking on the MRT? Big no-no.
Fares: Usually between NT$20–65 depending on distance. Just tap your EasyCard and go.
Bonus: The Taipei MRT connects directly to hotspots like Taipei 101, Ximending, Shilin Night Market, and even the airport via the Airport MRT Line.
🚆 TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) – The Local Train Network
Want to explore Taiwan beyond the cities? TRA trains are your go-to for scenic coastal rides and access to smaller towns and nature spots.
Think of it like: Taiwan’s version of regional trains—connecting Taipei to Hualien, Taitung, and local towns like Ruifang (Jiufen) or Shifen.
How to book: Buy tickets at the station, online, or use your EasyCard for shorter trips. For longer rides, it’s smart to reserve a seat in advance—especially on weekends or holidays.
Fares: Still very affordable. Example: Taipei to Jiufen (via Ruifang) costs about NT$75–100.
🚄 THSR (Taiwan High-Speed Rail) – Cross-Island in a Flash
If you’re heading from Taipei to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung, hop on the Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR). It’s sleek, fast, and gets you across the island in under two hours.
Speed: Up to 300 km/h. Taipei to Kaohsiung? About 90 minutes.
Fares: Taipei to Kaohsiung is around NT$1,490 (less than US$50), and early-bird discounts are available online.
How to book: Online (English available), at stations, or via the Klook app for discounts.
Note: HSR stations aren’t always in the city center, but shuttle buses or local trains connect easily.
🚌 Local Buses – Budget-Friendly and Far-Reaching
Taiwan’s buses go everywhere—even places trains don’t reach, like remote hot springs or mountain villages. They’re also perfect for short trips within cities or towns.
Fares: Usually NT$15–30 for city buses. Just tap your EasyCard when boarding and again when getting off.
Good to know: Google Maps works great for bus routes and times in Taiwan.
🚲 YouBike – Two Wheels, One Island
Taiwan is cyclist-friendly, and in cities like Taipei and Taichung, YouBikes are everywhere. You can rent one by tapping your EasyCard, then return it at any other station.
First 30 mins: Often free or NT$5–10 depending on city
Great for: Exploring riverside parks, campuses, or quiet alleys
🚖 Taxis & Ride-Sharing
Taxis are affordable (compared to many Western countries) and safe, though not all drivers speak English. Use the Taiwan Taxi app or LINE Taxi for easy booking, or just hail one.
Starting fare: Around NT$85
Uber: Available in major cities and fully legal
✈️ Airport Transfers
Flying into Taoyuan International Airport? You’ve got options:
Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station: ~35 minutes, NT$160
Buses: Cheaper (around NT$140) but slower
Taxis: NT$1,000–1,200 to the city center
Final Thoughts
Taiwan’s transport is so reliable that even locals rarely need a car. Whether you’re zipping through Taipei’s MRT tunnels or gazing out the window of a mountain train, travel here is part of the adventure. Just get an EasyCard, keep Google Maps handy, and enjoy the ride.